State

Local Headline

Local Headline

McNeese names honor graduates, confers degrees

McNeese State University honor students were recognized at spring commencement ceremonies held May 13 in Burton Coliseum. Honor students recognized were: SUMMA CUM LAUDE (3.90-4.00): Brett Patrick Bel, Merryville; Michaela Grace Carroll, Pitkin; Drew M. Latour, Washington; Caleb M.
Brian Ardoin, community volunteer from Evangeline Parish, received the Louisiana Distinguished Civilian Service Medal on Saturday, May 28. He is pictured on the left with State Representative Lance Harris. (Gazette photo by Nancy Duplechain)

Brian Ardoin, community volunteer from Evangeline Parish, received the Louisiana Distinguished Civilian Service Medal on Saturday, May 28. He is pictured on the left with State Representative Lance Harris. (Gazette photo by Nancy Duplechain)

Ardoin receives mentor award from National Guard

By: NANCY DUPLECHAIN Staff Reporter Community volunteer Brian Ardoin received a special award from the Louisiana National Guard Saturday, May 28.
Local Headline

Local Headline

Allons... Hoorah!!

Staff Report The board members of Prairie Heritage Inc., which produces “Le Grand Hoorah” Cultural Celebration, wish to announce the return of its much-celebrated music and cultural event on September 24-25.
Among those pictured with State Senator Heather Cloud (center) are Woodworth mayor David Butler (left of center) and Addis mayor David Toups (right of center). (Photo courtesy of Senator Heather Cloud)

Among those pictured with State Senator Heather Cloud (center) are Woodworth mayor David Butler (left of center) and Addis mayor David Toups (right of center). (Photo courtesy of Senator Heather Cloud)

Mayor’s court bill nears adoption

By: TONY MARKS Editor Mayors and town magistrates from Springhill to Golden Meadow and all points in between will be required to undergo 90 days of training regarding mayor’s court. This requirement was proposed in the state legislature by State Senator Heather Cloud and is nearing final adoption.
Gracie Vidrine and Luke Chapman

Gracie Vidrine and Luke Chapman

Nashvegas bound

By: TONY MARKS Editor Twelve students from Evangeline Parish qualified to attend the National Beta Convention in Nashville, Tenn. Those students were recognized during the Evangeline Parish School Board meeting held Wednesday, May 4.
Pvt. Hillary Soileau

Pvt. Hillary Soileau

Laid to rest

Staff Report WASHINGTON – The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) announced Army Pvt. Hillary Soileau, 23, of Whiteville, killed during World War II, was accounted for Dec. 8, 2020. Soileau will be buried at noon on Saturday, May 21, in Washington.
Miss Viande Boucanée XXVIII  Shelby Nola Ward

Miss Viande Boucanée XXVIII Shelby Nola Ward

Miss Viande Boucanée XXVIII: Ward crowned

By: HEATHER BOGARD Associate Editor The 28th annual Miss Festival de la Viande Boucanée Pageant was held Sunday, April 24, at the Northside Civic Center in Ville Platte.
Miss Smoked Meat Queen Victoria Breaux

Miss Smoked Meat Queen Victoria Breaux

Queen psychology

By: TONY MARKS Editor A mind is a terrible thing to waste. While that is a cliché, it rings true for psychology student Victoria Breaux, a 20-year-old member of Alpha Omicron Pi sorority at Northwestern State University and Gamers Guild.
Ms. Smoked Meat Joanie Folse (left) and  Teen Miss Smoked Meat Queen Carmen Beal (right)

Ms. Smoked Meat Joanie Folse (left) and Teen Miss Smoked Meat Queen Carmen Beal (right)

Mother-daughter tandem relishes in representing Smoked Meat

By: TONY MARKS Editor Pageants, like sports, can bring people closer together... even family members. Just ask reigning Ms. Smoked Meat Joanie Folse who represented the festival alongside her daughter, Carmen Beal.